Air China's tail logo is a stylised Phoenix already but the Fenghuang, as its known in China, was beautifully realised in 2009 when B-5422 a 737-89L was rolled out in an excellent scheme. The Fenghuang or Phoenix is a mythological bird of East Asia that reigned over all other birds. The scheme has however come to be known as the ‘Peacock’ scheme due to the eyes on the tail of the bird.

China has seen an impressive number of special liveries on their airliners even though the big three airlines are very conservative with their standard schemes. Thankfully the conservative nature of Chinese authorities has meant that Chinese special schemes tend to be colourful but tasteful and unlike their Japanese neighbours don't tend to advertise dreadful boy bands or awful cartoon characters let alone kittens like Eva Air! Chinese schemes tend to work towards features of Chinese nationalism or statehood or apply to state run special events. Of course one of the most iconic Chinese images is that of the Phoenix.

The Phoenix emblem goes further with Air China however as the airline's frequent flyer programme, the first in China, is known as Phoenix Miles.

Air China has 104 active 737-800s though 14 others have left the fleet since the first aircraft joined in August 1999.

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I'm Richard Stretton: a fan of classic airliners and airlines who enjoys exploring their history through my collection of die-cast airliners. If you enjoy the site please donate whatever you can to help keep it running: